• Chlamydia Symptoms to Know

    doctor and nurse with patient in hospital

    Chlamydia is a type of sexually transmitted disease (STD). If you suspect you’re experiencing some of the symptoms of chlamydia, it’s advisable to make an appointment at a gynecology office right away. If left untreated, this STD can lead to infertility and an increased risk of ectopic pregnancy. It is possible to have chlamydia and not experience any symptoms. When symptoms do arise, they typically do so several weeks after you had unprotected sex.

    Women with chlamydia will typically experience symptoms such as a burning sensation while urinating and unusual vaginal discharge. Women may also notice abnormally painful periods, bleeding between periods, and pain during intercourse. The area in and around the vagina may itch and burn. Additionally, patients may suffer from abdominal pain, accompanied by a fever. If the rectum is infected with chlamydia, rectal pain, bleeding, and unusual discharge can occur.

    For all of your reproductive health needs, including safe and legal abortions, turn to the gynecologists at Washington Surgi-Clinic. You can reach our women’s health clinic in Washington, D.C. by calling (202) 683-7336.

  • Tips for Preventing Vaginal Infections

    Asian doctor talking with female patient

    It is common for women to experience vaginal infections; some women even suffer from recurrent infections. Contrary to popular belief, not all vaginal infections are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), such as yeast infections. While different vaginal infections can have different symptoms, gynecologists recommend making an appointment any time you experience itching, burning, or painful sensations in the area. You should also see a local gynecologist if you experience abnormal vaginal discharge.

    Practice Good Hygiene

    To help you avoid a recurrence of a vaginal infection , your gynecologist is likely to recommend that you practice good hygiene habits. You can reduce your risk of infections by bathing daily, including washing the outside of your vagina. Wear clean underwear every day to avoid the spread of germs. Additionally, wipe front to back after you use the powder room.

    Be Careful with Your Wardrobe

    Bacteria thrive under moist, hot conditions. You can reduce your risk of a vaginal infection by changing out of workout clothes and bathing suits immediately after you exercise. Additionally, wear underwear made of a natural fiber, such as cotton, and avoid wearing very tight pants.

    Avoid Potentially Harmful Products

    Certain products can irritate the vagina area and may increase your risk of an infection. These include scented tampons, pads, and bubble bath. Additionally, gynecologists advise against douching because this disrupts the balance of bacteria in the vagina area.

    Drink Plenty of Fluids

    Drinking enough water doesn’t only keep you from getting dehydrated; it can also help prevent a urinary tract infection (UTI). Talk to your doctor about how much water you should drink every day.

    Reconsider Your Diet

    You may be able to reduce the risk of a yeast infection by limiting the amount of sugar you eat. This is because yeast feeds on sugar. Additionally, consider eating yogurt with active cultures every day to combat the spread of yeast.

    At Washington Surgi-Clinic, you’ll find caring gynecologists who can answer any questions you may have about women’s health. Our women’s health clinic also provides safe abortions and testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Women throughout the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia areas can call (202) 683-7336 to request more information about our services or to schedule an appointment with a gynecologist.

  • Understanding Bacterial Vaginosis

    Bacterial vaginosis is a type of infection of the vagina that occurs when the balance of beneficial and harmful bacteria becomes disrupted. While it isn’t yet known exactly what causes it, gynecologists have identified some risk factors. Women who smoke, douche, and have multiple sexual partners are at a higher risk of acquiring this infection. If you suspect you might have bacterial vaginosis, see a gynecologist promptly for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

    You can learn more about this common infection by watching this video. This doctor explains the typical symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, discusses the risk factors, and offers in-depth explanations about the treatment options. He also explains under which circumstances a woman’s partner should be tested for this infection.

    The gynecology team at Washington Surgi-Clinic offers a range of gynecologic services , including testing and treatment of infections and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Women in the Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. areas can contact us by calling (202) 683-7336.

  • Breaking Down Myths About Abortion

    Woman in doctor's office frowning

    Although gynecologists perform safe, legal abortions every day in the U.S., there are still plenty of myths regarding these procedures. Under U.S. law, women have the right to decide to terminate a pregnancy. Unfortunately, anti-abortion advocates and those who are ignorant of the procedure have made many claims that can be damaging to these legal rights. If you have any questions about pregnancy termination, you should feel free to discuss them with a gynecologist.

    Myth: Abortions Are Dangerous for Women

    Abortions are actually among the safest types of procedures a woman can have. The risks of serious complications and fatalities are extremely low. Women are more likely to suffer from complications of labor and birth than they are to experience medical problems with an abortion.

    Myth: Abortions Are Detrimental to Psychological Health

    One of the most common myths about this procedure is that women who have abortions will experience some form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or other mental health challenges. In fact, scientific evidence does not support this idea. Gynecologists have long observed that having an abortion is not more mentally damaging than placing a child for adoption or raising an unwanted child.

    Myth: Abortions Are Cruel Toward the Fetus

    Researchers tend to agree that the fetus is incapable of feeling pain during the first and second trimesters. The vast majority of all abortions are performed during this time period.

    Myth: Abortions Are a Sign of Poor Character

    Unfortunately, many people condemn women who have abortions as having poor moral character. It’s a common myth that all women who have this procedure failed to use birth control properly. In fact, the majority of women who choose pregnancy termination did use birth control; however, birth control can sometimes fail and lead to unintended pregnancies. Additionally, many women choose pregnancy termination after surviving rape.

    If you are considering having an abortion, Washington Surgi-Clinic invites you to schedule a consultation with one of our friendly gynecologists. Our women’s health clinic in Washington, D.C. provides non-surgical and surgical abortions that are safe, legal, and affordable. You can reach our abortion clinic by calling (202) 683-7336 if you wish to learn more about your pregnancy termination options.

  • A Look at Parental Consent and Notification Laws for Abortion

    Teenager girl complaining  to  doctor about symptoms

    Parental consent and notification laws for abortion vary from state to state. In some states, the law requires that all girls under the age of 18 obtain permission from at least one parent to obtain an abortion. In other states, girls can visit a women’s clinic for an abortion without the need for permission if they are the victims of abuse or neglect. Girls might also bypass the permission requirement by seeking consent from a judge.

    For example, Virginia law requires that at least one parent give permission for an abortion; however, a judge may waive this requirement. In Maryland, one parent must be told of the decision to have an abortion, yet permission is not needed. A judge may also waive the notification requirement. In Washington, D.C., girls may obtain an abortion legally, without the need for any sort of parental involvement. When a patient visits a women’s clinic, she can rest assured that the gynecologist will protect her confidentiality and uphold the law.

    The gynecologists of Washington Surgi-Clinic in Washington, D.C. are firmly committed to upholding the highest standards of patient confidentiality. Girls and women throughout the area are welcome to contact our women’s clinic at (202) 683-7336 to schedule a visit.

  • Recognizing the Early Signs of Pregnancy

    Long-haired cute pregnant woman sleeping on white pillow in bed

    Every woman is different, especially when it comes to pregnancy. Some women experience the early signs of pregnancy even before noticing a missed period. Other women may not detect anything different until they visit a gynecologist because of menstrual delay. Many of the early signs of pregnancy, such as headaches and lower back pain, can mimic other health issues. If you have been sexually active, it’s best to err on the side of caution and take a pregnancy test or visit a local women’s clinic . Gynecologists often see women who experience the following symptoms.

    Nausea

    Early on in your pregnancy, your hormone levels will change dramatically . This leads to symptoms such as morning sickness. Many women find that they can relieve nausea and vomiting in the morning by nibbling on a few plain crackers. Gynecologists recommend keeping a package of crackers on the bedside table and eating a few before getting out of bed. Smaller, more frequent meals may also alleviate nausea.

    Odor Sensitivity

    Nausea may also be triggered by a heightened sensitivity to odors. Many women become hypersensitive to odors that they previously found unpleasant, in addition to previously pleasing odors such as perfume.

    Food Aversions

    Food aversions are an easily recognizable sign of pregnancy. It’s quite common for women to gag or feel nauseous when exposed to strong cooking odors. For some women, simply opening the refrigerator is enough to bring about a gag reflex. If your food aversions are intense, you may wish to ask your partner to cook while you step outside for some fresh air. Choosing bland foods may also help.

    Fatigue

    As early as the first week after becoming pregnant, excessive, unexplained fatigue may set in. Your gynecologist is likely to recommend getting more rest, rather than increasing your caffeine intake.

    If you’re not ready to have children, you can evaluate your abortion options with the help of a caring gynecologist. Washington Surgi-Clinic provides safe, affordable abortions to women in Washington D.C., and throughout Maryland and Virginia. You can connect with a gynecologist by calling (202) 683-7336 or by visiting our website.

  • Who Should Get the HPV Cancer Vaccine?

    There are many strains of the human papilloma virus (HPV), including those that cause cervical cancer. HPV has also been linked to throat and anal cancer, in addition to penile cancer in uncircumcised males. The HPV vaccine can prevent cancer caused by the HPV virus in both men and women. For the best possible protection, gynecologists recommend vaccinating boys and girls as preteens, before they are sexually active.

    However, individuals who are older can also benefit from this vaccination, as you’ll learn by watching this video. In fact, doctors recommend the vaccine up to the age of 26. The expert in this video explains why getting the vaccine even after HPV exposure may be helpful.

    For personalized and affordable gynecologic care in the Maryland and Virginia area, call Washington Surgi-Clinic at (202) 683-7336. Our women’s clinic provides a full range of gynecology services, including HPV treatment.

  • Finding the Right Birth Control Method for Your Body and Lifestyle

    Young woman looking at her contraceptive pills

    These days, women have plenty of birth control options available to them. You can even choose to combine different methods for added protection, such as by using a hormonal birth control method and a barrier method. Visit a gynecologist at a women’s clinic to explore the options available to you. Discuss your medical history and personal preferences with the gynecologist to learn which options might be right for you.

    Evaluating Your Family Planning Preferences

    Consider whether you might like to have children at some point. If you’re positive that you don’t want to have children, you might consider permanent sterilization. This involves blocking the fallopian tubes to prevent sperm from fertilizing eggs. You may choose to freeze your eggs in the event that you change your mind later. If you think you might like children, but you’d like to wait a few years, consider Depo-Provera. Although it’s possible to become pregnant right after this injection wears off, it typically takes a while to conceive after discontinuing it. If you might like to have children sooner than that, a pill or a barrier method might be right for you.

    Assessing Your Need for Convenience

    Convenience is often a significant factor when making a decision about birth control . Many women find it convenient to take a pill every day, while others worry that they might forget. If you require more convenience than the pill offers, consider using the implant, which lasts up to three years. The injection works for 12 weeks. Intrauterine devices (IUDs) also last a long time.

    Protecting Yourself from STDs

    Gynecologists often recommend using a barrier method of birth control in addition to your primary method because it’s the only way to prevent sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) – aside from abstinence. Male condoms are effective in safeguarding your health, while female condoms can lower the risk of certain STDs.

    When you visit a gynecologist at Washington Surgi-Clinic, you’ll be given all the information you need to make a decision about birth control that is right for you. Our women’s clinic was founded on the principles of providing compassionate, personalized care that upholds each patient’s dignity and privacy. Call (202) 683-7336 to arrange an appointment with a gynecologist to discuss family planning.

  • Do Your Parents Have to Know You Take Birth Control Pills?

    conversation with a therapist

    If you feel uncomfortable discussing sexual relations and birth control pills with your parents, you do not need to do so. Doctors, including gynecologists, are bound to a code of confidentiality. That means they will not inform your parents that you scheduled an appointment at a women’s health clinic, nor will they tell them that you’re starting to take birth control pills. Furthermore, you do not need to obtain the permission of your parents or guardian to take the pill.

    During your appointment with the gynecologist, you’ll discuss your medical history and learn about your birth control options. Your gynecologist will ask you if you’re already sexually active; it’s important to be honest. If you’ve already had intercourse, your gynecologist may recommend an exam and testing for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Remember that taking the pill does not protect you from STDs; you’ll still need to use a condom.

    At Washington Surgi-Clinic, our friendly gynecologists uphold the strictest standards of confidentiality for all of our patients. Young women throughout Maryland and Virginia can make an appointment to discuss birth control by calling (202) 659-9403.

  • The Difference Between a Pap Smear and Pelvic Exam

    Women often confuse pelvic exams and pap smears as being the same procedure. However, they are two distinct wellness services. During a pelvic exam, the gynecologist examines the external genitalia and inserts a speculum into the vagina. The speculum enables the examination of the cervix. Then, the physician swabs the cervix to collect cells, which are examined in a lab. The pap smear is a screening tool, rather than a diagnostic test, to check for the presence of abnormal cells.

    You can learn more about pelvic exams and pap smears by watching this video. This gynecologist discusses what will happen if abnormal cells and HPV infection are present, and what a physician may recommend if abnormal cells are present without an HPV infection.

    Washington Surgi-Clinic is a fully equipped gynecology practice that provides women of the Maryland and Virginia areas with pap smears and a range of other women’s healthcare services . To schedule an affordable pap smear, call our office at (202) 659-9403.